Your car works hard for you every day. Whether you’re driving to work, picking up the kids, or heading off on holiday, your vehicle needs regular care to keep running smoothly. But knowing when to book a full service can be confusing. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Full Service?
A full service is like a complete health check for your car. Our mechanics at First Auto Centre examine everything from your engine to your brakes, checking that all parts are working as they should. It’s much more detailed than a basic service and takes longer to complete.
During a full service, we check your oil, filters, brakes, tyres, lights, battery, and dozens of other components. We also look for any wear and tear that might cause problems later. Think of it as preventive medicine for your car.
How Often Should You Get a Full Service?
Most cars need a full service once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. But this can vary depending on your vehicle and how you use it.
If you drive mainly around town with lots of stop-start traffic, your car works harder than one that cruises on motorways. Short journeys where the engine doesn’t fully warm up can be particularly tough on your vehicle. In these cases, you might need more frequent servicing.
Older cars often need more attention too. As vehicles age, parts wear out faster and problems can develop more quickly. If your car is over five years old, it’s worth having it checked more regularly.
Warning Signs Your Car Needs a Service
Don’t wait for your annual service if you notice these warning signs:
Strange noises are often the first clue something’s wrong. Squealing brakes, grinding sounds, or unusual engine noises shouldn’t be ignored. These sounds usually mean parts are wearing out and need attention.
Dashboard warning lights are there for a reason. Whether it’s your engine management light, oil pressure warning, or brake light, don’t ignore these signals. They’re your car’s way of asking for help.
Changes in performance matter too. If your car feels sluggish, takes longer to start, or uses more fuel than usual, it’s time for a check-up. These changes often happen gradually, so you might not notice them at first.
Unusual smells can indicate serious problems. A burning smell might mean your brakes are overheating, while a sweet smell could suggest a coolant leak. Trust your nose – if something smells wrong, get it checked.
Seasonal Considerations
Britain’s weather can be tough on cars, so timing your service around the seasons makes sense.
Before winter is an ideal time for a full service. Cold weather is hard on batteries, and you’ll want your heating, lights, and wipers working perfectly. We check your antifreeze levels and make sure your battery can handle those frosty mornings.
Spring services help repair any winter damage. Road salt can cause corrosion, and potholes might have affected your suspension or wheel alignment. A thorough check after winter helps catch these problems early.
Summer preparation is important if you’re planning long drives or holidays. Hot weather can be tough on your cooling system and air conditioning. A pre-summer service ensures everything’s ready for those longer journeys.
Mileage Matters
How much you drive affects when you need a service. High-mileage drivers who cover 20,000 miles a year will need more frequent attention than someone who barely reaches 5,000 miles annually.
But low-mileage drivers shouldn’t think they’re off the hook. Cars that sit unused for long periods can develop different problems. Batteries go flat, tyres develop flat spots, and fluids can degrade even without use.
Age and Service History
A car’s age and previous maintenance history play a huge role in determining service intervals. A well-maintained five-year-old car might run perfectly with annual services, while a neglected three-year-old vehicle could need immediate attention.
When you buy a used car, it’s worth having a full service straight away, even if the previous owner claims it was recently done. This gives you a baseline understanding of your car’s condition and peace of mind about any hidden problems.
The Cost of Avoiding Services
Skipping services might save money in the short term, but it usually costs more in the long run. Small problems that could be fixed cheaply during a service often become expensive repairs if left alone.
For example, changing your oil regularly costs around £30-50, but replacing an engine damaged by old oil can cost thousands. Similarly, replacing worn brake pads costs much less than replacing damaged brake discs.
What First Auto Centre Checks
During a full service at First Auto Centre, we examine over 50 different components. We check your engine oil and filter, brake fluid, coolant levels, and battery condition. We also inspect your tyres, lights, windscreen wipers, and exhaust system.
We test your brakes thoroughly, checking both the pads and discs. We examine your suspension, steering, and wheel alignment. Under the bonnet, we look at belts, hoses, and fluid levels.
Most importantly, we explain everything we find in plain English. We’ll show you any worn parts and explain what needs doing now versus what can wait until next time.
Conclusion
Regular servicing isn’t just about keeping your car running – it’s about keeping you and your family safe on the road. A well-maintained car is more reliable, more efficient, and holds its value better.
At First Auto Centre, we believe in honest, straightforward service. We’ll never recommend work you don’t need, and we’ll always explain our recommendations clearly. Book your full service when your car reaches its annual milestone or 12,000 miles, but don’t hesitate to bring it in sooner if you notice any warning signs.
Your car takes care of you every day. Return the favour with regular, professional servicing. It’s one of the best investments you can make in your vehicle’s future.
